USCIS Resumes Personal “Neighborhood” Investigations for Naturalization Applicants

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant change for those seeking naturalization. According to Policy Memorandum PM-602-0189, the agency is resuming personal investigations, also called neighborhood investigations, for applicants. This update ends the general waiver of such investigations that had been in place since the 1990s.

What Are Neighborhood Investigations?

Neighborhood investigations are in-person checks conducted by USCIS to verify a naturalization applicant’s eligibility. These in-person checks may involve visiting an applicant's residence or place of employment and interviewing neighbors, business associates, employers, and co-workers. Under INA §335(a), these investigations allow officers to:

• Confirm the applicant’s residency and presence in the United States

• Assess good moral character, a key requirement for citizenship

• Evaluate the applicant’s attachment to the U.S. Constitution

• Determine the applicant’s disposition to the good order and happiness of the United States

Essentially, these investigations give USCIS officers a more detailed, first-hand look at an applicant’s life and character. While they may sound intrusive, neighborhood investigations are a legal part of the naturalization process, intended to corroborate documentary evidence and ensure that naturalization applicants meet the standards set by law.

Why the Change?

In the past, USCIS had issued a general waiver of neighborhood investigations for most naturalization applications. This meant that applicants typically did not undergo these in-person checks unless there were unusual circumstances. With the new policy memorandum, USCIS will end the blanket waiver and evaluate whether to conduct a neighborhood investigation on a case-by-case basis.

The agency will use its discretion to determine:

• If an applicant’s case can be verified through documentation alone

• When additional, in-person investigation is warranted

• What evidence will be necessary to support a waiver of the investigation

This shift reflects USCIS’s intent to apply more thorough and individualized scrutiny to naturalization applications.

What This Means for Applicants

For those planning to apply for citizenship, this change has several implications:

1. Additional scrutiny may be applied – USCIS may now conduct neighborhood investigations in more cases than before. This could affect timelines and require applicants to provide more detailed information about their daily life and community involvement.

2. Documentation is key – Applicants should ensure all evidence of residency, employment, tax filings, and good moral character is complete and accurate.

3. Prepare for possible in-person checks – While not every applicant will undergo a neighborhood investigation, being ready to respond to inquiries or provide supporting contacts is important.

4. Professional guidance is valuable – Navigating naturalization applications can be complex, especially with heightened scrutiny. An experienced immigration attorney can help prepare a strong application and advise on potential neighborhood investigation issues.

Types of Evidence USCIS May Review

The policy memorandum provides guidance on what evidence USCIS may consider when deciding whether to conduct or waive a neighborhood investigation. Examples include:

• Proof of continuous residency, such as leases, utility bills, or employment records

• Character references and documentation of community involvement

• Records showing compliance with laws and tax obligations

• Any other evidence demonstrating attachment to the U.S. Constitution and the principles of good order

Applicants who submit strong supporting documentation may have a better chance of avoiding an in-person investigation, although final decisions rest with USCIS officers.

The Bottom Line

USCIS’s decision to resume neighborhood investigations signals a return to more individualized review of naturalization applicants. While not everyone will be affected, this change emphasizes the importance of thorough preparation and careful documentation.

If you are planning to apply for citizenship or want to ensure your naturalization application is as strong as possible, seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference. The attorney at Tran Flores Law can help you navigate the application process and address any potential neighborhood investigation concerns. Call us today at (512) 894-9984 to schedule a consultation.